\Breath\ (br[e^]th), n. [OE. breth, breeth, AS.
br[=ae][eth] odor, scent, breath; cf. OHG. br[=a]dam steam,
vapor, breath, G. brodem, and possibly E. {Brawn}, and
{Breed}.]
1. The air inhaled and exhaled in respiration; air which, in
   the process of respiration, has parted with oxygen and has
   received carbonic acid, aqueous vapor, warmth, etc.
         Melted as breath into the wind.       --Shak.
2. The act of breathing naturally or freely; the power or
   capacity to breathe freely; as, I am out of breath.
3. The power of respiration, and hence, life. --Hood.
         Thou takest away their breath, they die. --Ps. civ.
                                               29.
4. Time to breathe; respite; pause.
         Give me some breath, some little pause. --Shak.
5. A single respiration, or the time of making it; a single
   act; an instant.
         He smiles and he frowns in a breath.  --Dryden.
6. Fig.: That which gives or strengthens life.
         The earthquake voice of victory, To thee the breath
         of life.                              --Byron.
7. A single word; the slightest effort; a trifle.
         A breath can make them, as a breath has made.
                                               --Goldsmith.
8. A very slight breeze; air in gentle motion.
         Calm and unruffled as a summer's sea, when not a
         breath of wind flies o'er its surface. --Addison.
9. Fragrance; exhalation; odor; perfume. --Tennison.
         The breath of flowers.                --Bacon.
10. Gentle exercise, causing a quicker respiration.
          An after dinner's breath.            --Shak.
{Out of breath}, breathless, exhausted; breathing with
   difficulty.
{Under one's breath}, in low tones.